Corrosion of Traditional Political Power in North Waziristan after 9/11: A Theoretical Analysis

Abstract

The land of North Waziristan since the event of 9/11 has become the seedbed of terrorism. The unrestricted and free movement on the Durand Line between Pakistan and Afghanistan provided an opportunity for Taliban to crisscross the border freely and to increase their influence in the region. North Waziristan, traditionally being ruled by Malik (village headmen), Masher (elders) and the Political Agent through Jirga (council), superseded and dominated by Taliban leaders. Through brute force and incorporation
of religion Taliban surpassed the traditional powers of Malik and the Political Agent and brought Jirga in their folds. They slaughtered hundreds of civilians and Malik and got control over the socio-political and economic structures of North Waziristan. Different foreign terrorists and local Taliban groups used to torture, abuse, and harass the local people. The Pashtun traditions of Pashtunwali corroded immensely because of the prevailing troublesome environment. The existing laws of the Frontier Crime Regulations (FCR) were largely the reasons for the troublesome situation in North Waziristan. The existing laws failed not only in restricting the activities of Taliban but also in dealing with them through comprehensive mechanism. What is needed in the area is to accelerate the integration process. The National Action Plan (NAP) represents just such an initiative as its provisions deal with the menace of terrorism and provides counter terrorism mechanism, inspiration and guidelines for FATA reforms. The erstwhile Federally Administered Tribal Area (FATA) through effective implementation of NAP can successfully be brought in the folds of
development.